Inductively coupled system for delivery and Monitoring of photodynamic therapy in a rat model for glioblastoma

In this paper, advances in a novel inductively powered photodynamic therapy (PDT) system are reported. Following the development of micro fabricated solid state optodes that enable treatment delivery and monitoring on a local scale without the common need for fiber optics, we have designed, implemented and tested electronics to drive and read-out the optical transducers wirelessly. These electronics are based on a commercial RFID transponder working at 125 kHz, and separate power coils working at 1.3 MHz. We have been able to successfully power the excitation LEDpsilas with an electrical input power of 10 mW in a circular area of interest with a diameter of 30 cm. Communication over RFID has been successfully demonstrated over a distance of several centimeters. The system is meant for implantation in long term experiments in a rat model of a brain tumor (glioblastoma). The electronics and coils are currently being adapted for laboratory use with animals, and animal experiments are planned for the coming months.